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City Council

Regular Meeting

Ocala, FL · September 16, 2025

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Minutes

110 SE Watula Avenue Ocala Ocala, FL 34471 City Council www.ocalafl.gov Minutes Tuesday, September 16, 2025 4:00 PM 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call Present: Mayor Ben Marciano Pro Tem Ire J. Bethea Sr Council Member James P. Hilty Sr Council Member Barry Mansfield Council Member Jay A. Musleh Council President Kristen M. Dreyer Municipal Officers/Others Present: The meeting was also attended by City Manager Peter Lee, City Attorney William Sexton, Assistant City Manager Ken Whitehead, Deputy City Clerk Pamela Omichinski, Fire Chief Clint Welborn, Police Chief Michael Balken, Internal Auditor Randall Bridgeman, Assistant Finance Director Peter Brill, Director of Airport Matthew Grow, Planning Director Aubrey Hale, Budget Director Tammi Haslam, Community Development Services Director James Haynes, Director of Parks & Recreation Julie Johnson, HR/Risk Management Director Todd Swanson, City Engineer & Director of Water Resources Sean Lanier, Chief Financial Officer Janice Mitchell, Director of Public Works Darren Park, Director of Electric Utility Doug Peebles, Director of Ocala Fiber Network Mel Poole, IT Director Christopher Ramos, Strategic & Legislative Affairs Administrator Jeannine Robbins, Procurement & Contracting Officer Daphne Robinson, Growth Management Director Jeff Shrum, Chief of Staff Chris Watt, Ocala Police Dept Representative, IT Representative, The Press and other interested parties. 2a. New Employees - Jordan Price, Ocala Fiber Network - Zachariah Farrell, Ocala Fiber Network - Bradley Ottinger, Public Works - Alex Jones, Public Works 3. Public Notice - Public Notice for the September 16, 2025 City Council Regular Meeting was posted on August 20, 2025 4. Proclamations and Awards 4a. Presentation of the Mayor’s Citizen Recognition Award to Michael Hoffmann Mayor Marciano presented the Mayor’s Citizen Recognition Award to Michael Hoffmann in appreciation of his contributions to the community. Mr. Hoffmann thanked the Mayor for the award, as well as the parents of his students at Forest High School for Page 1 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 their continued support. 4b. Presentation of the Give4Marion Day Proclamation to Ocala/Marion County Community Foundation President and Executive Director, Lauren DeIorio Mayor Marciano presented a proclamation for Give4Marion Day. The City proclaims September 16, 2025, as Give4Marion Day. Ms. DeIorio, on behalf of dozens of citizens involved with Give4Marion Day, urged everyone to donate and help local community nonprofits through the donation drive. A celebration will be held at the Riley Black Box Theatre on Wednesday, September 17 at 5:00 pm. 4c. Presentation of the Constitution Week Proclamation to the Daughters of the American Revolution Regent, Rochelle Gerofsky Mayor Marciano presented a proclamation for Constitution Week. The City proclaims September 17, 2025 to September 23, 2025, as Constitution Week. Ms. Gerofsky discussed the importance of the Constitution and urged everyone to join in celebrating the anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution on September 17 at 4pm by ringing a bell. She noted every fifth grader in Marion County has received a workbook to learn about the Constitution. 4d. Presentation of the Central Florida Community Action Agency Day Proclamation to CFCAA Board Member Dr. Gwendolyn B. Dawson Mayor Marciano presented a proclamation for Central Florida Community Action Agency Day. The City proclaims October 16, 2025, as Central Florida Community Action Agency Day. Ms. Dawson thanked the City for its continued support and partnership. The agency served over 10,000 individuals and 4,000 households last year across Marion and Levy counties and looks forward to expanding collaboration on housing initiatives. 4e. Presentation of the Osceola Middle School Centennial Celebration Proclamation to Osceola Middle School Principal Renee Johnson Mayor Marciano presented a proclamation for Osceola Middle School Centennial Celebration Day. The City proclaims September 20, 2025, as Osceola Middle School Centennial Celebration Day. 4f. Service Award – Sergeant Michael Diesso – Ocala Police Department - 25 Years of Service RESULT: PULLED 4g. Service Award – Captain Anthony Vizzini – 25 Years of Service Mayor Marciano and City Manager Pete Lee presented a service award to Captain Anthony Vizzini in appreciation of his 25 years of service to the City of Ocala. Captain Vizzini expressed gratitude to the Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and Chief Balken for their support, and acknowledged the importance of family and leadership in his career. Page 2 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 5. Presentations 5a. Public Information Officer, Gregory Davis – Communications Update Public Information Officer Gregory Davis provided a six-month communications update, highlighting team changes, social media growth, earned media coverage, and increased use of video content. Facebook remains the strongest platform, with notable engagement on posts related to public transparency and community events. The department issued 22 press releases and continues to expand outreach through new platforms and content strategies. 5b. CEP annual presentation by Tamara Fleischhaker and Heather Shubirg Tamara Fleischhaker, Interim CEO and Chief Experience Officer of the CEP, thanked the City for its continued partnership and support. She highlighted the success of the Ocala Downtown Market, which now attracts approximately 5,000 visitors each weekend and hosts over 95 additional events annually. The market continues to serve as a vibrant community venue supporting local businesses and economic growth. Heather Shubirg, CEP Chief Growth Officer, highlighted the organization’s entrepreneurial and job creation efforts. The Business Creation team hosted 77 events citywide, including Ocala’s first business lender matchmaking event. Programs like Fast Track and One Million Cups saw strong participation, including Spanish-language offerings. The Job Creation team continues to promote growth sectors such as aviation and life sciences. A new Air Mobility Task Force was formed to explore advanced air travel opportunities at Ocala International Airport. Ms. Shubirg also highlighted CEP’s strategic initiatives, including plans to develop a healthcare incubator and ongoing talent development efforts. The organization recently hosted a Life Sciences Career Day for high school students and reported over 4,000 jobs and $1.4 billion in capital investment over the past five years. Marketing efforts continue through LocateOcala.com and the Live Life Here campaign. CEP is also exploring advanced air mobility opportunities and promoting Ocala internationally through partnerships with Florida Commerce and the U.S. Department of Commerce. Ms. Shubirg concluded by recognizing her team’s professional growth and shared her excitement as she transitions to a new role with the Florida Commerce Department. City Manager Pete Lee thanked Ms. Fleischhaker and Ms. Shubirg for their hard work. 6. Consent Agenda Consent Agenda items are considered to be routine and will be enacted by one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of Council or the public request specific items to be removed for separate discussion and action. RESULT: APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA MOVER: Ire J. Bethea Sr Page 3 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 SECONDER: Barry Mansfield AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 6a. Five-year Pole Attachment Agreement between the City of Ocala and Wire 3, LLC, outlining the terms for attaching telecommunications equipment to City-owned utility poles Presentation By: Doug Peebles 6b. See Item 7 6c. Assignment of an airport hangar ground lease from Townley Engineering and Manufacturing to Tem2025Holdings, Inc. Presentation By: Matthew Grow 6d. Renewal of the annual maintenance and support contract of VMWare for the Ocala Police Department in the amount of $86,303 Presentation By: Joshua Sasso 6e. Minutes from September 3, 2025 meeting Presentation By: Angel Jacobs 7. Consent Agenda Items Held for Discussion Should any items be removed from the Consent Agenda for discussion, they will be discussed at this time. 6b. Second amendment to the Agreement for Management of the Fort King Tennis Center to incorporate a management services fee in an amount not to exceed $98,800 Presentation By: Julie Johnson Recreation and Parks Director Julie Johnson presented a proposed amendment to the City’s existing contract with Jason Weiss Ventures, Inc. for management services at the tennis center. Due to rising operational costs, staff recommends adding a monthly management services fee of $1,900 from October 1, 2025, through January 31, 2030. The total not-to-exceed amount is $98,800. Staff recommends approval. Council Member Hilty expressed concern over the lack of current financial information provided with the proposed contract amendment for tennis center management. He questioned the early renewal of the contract and suggested it may have been timed to avoid a new bid process. He also raised issues regarding membership data, contract performance, and fairness, noting that subsidizing a private business could be perceived as inequitable given other local businesses facing financial challenges. In response to Council President Dreyer questioning an alternative option, Ms. Johnson explained that if the City were to operate the tennis center directly, the net annual cost would be approximately $144,227, primarily due to staffing. Total expenses would be around $250,000, offset by an estimated $105,000 in revenue. Operating the facility would require hiring a manager, maintenance worker, and part-time staff, along with Page 4 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 contracting a teaching professional. She noted that maintaining clay courts requires specialized training and experience, and turnover could impact quality. While the City has managed the facility in the past, the current contract amendment is considered the most cost-effective option. Ms. Johnson noted staff typically try to renew contracts six months in advance. Council Member Hilty reiterated concerns regarding the vendor’s lack of financial reporting. Council President Dreyer suggested tabling the item to allow the vendor an opportunity to submit the requested financial information to the City. Council Member Bethea suggested reopening the item for bid. Council Member Musleh spoke in favor of allowing the vendor an opportunity to submit financial reports. City Manager Pete Lee stated the City will present financial reports and in-house operation costs at a future meeting. City Council agreed to withdraw the motion and table the item to the next meeting. RESULT: TABLED MOVER: Jay A. Musleh SECONDER: Ire J. Bethea Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer NAY: Hilty Sr 8. Introduction and First Readings of Ordinances (Second and Final Reading - October 7, 2025) 8a. Ordinance 2025-41, amending Sec. 54-31 and 54-121, Code of Ordinances, City of Ocala, Florida, providing for maximum accumulation of waste and modifying the rate for multi-family units with roll-off compactors Presentation By: Darren Park Introduced By: Ire J. Bethea Sr RESULT: INTRODUCED 9. Public Hearings / Second and Final Readings / Adoption of Ordinances Note: Items 9c through 9f will be heard at 5:01pm or shortly thereafter. 9a. Permit for the sale of beer and wine for on-premises consumption for Genki Izakaya, LLC., doing business as Koto Hibachi Express Sushi and Bubble Tea, located at 3811 SW College Road (Parcel 2388-002-00)(Quasi-Judicial) Presentation By: Endira Madraveren Page 5 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 Council President Dreyer opened the public hearing. Planning Director Aubrey Hale discussed an alcohol permit application submitted by Genki Izakaya, LLC. The applicant is requesting approval of an alcohol permit for the sale of beer and wine for on premises consumption for the subject property known as Koto Hibachi Express Sushi and Bubble Tea, located at 3811 SW College Road. To note, staff recommends approval. No public comment. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Ire J. Bethea Sr SECONDER: Barry Mansfield AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 9b. Sale of beer, wine and liquor for on-premises consumption for Shelijen, LLC, doing business as, Staybridge Suites Ocala located at 4627 NW Blitchton Rd (Parcel 21509-001-02)(Quasi-Judicial) Presentation By: Endira Madraveren Council President Dreyer opened the public hearing. Planning Director Aubrey Hale discussed an alcohol permit application submitted by Shelijen, LLC. The applicant is requesting approval of an alcohol permit for the sale of beer, wine, and liquor for on premises consumption for the subject property known as Staybridge Suites Ocala, located at 4627 NW Blitchton Rd. To note, staff recommends approval. No public comment. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: James P. Hilty Sr SECONDER: Barry Mansfield AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 9c. Resolution 2025-182 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 millage rates for the Downtown Development Districts at the current rates of 1.7185 (District A), 1.6332 (District B), and 1.4699 (District C) Presentation By: Tammi Haslam Budget Director Tammi Haslam discussed the adoption of resolutions 2025-182 and 2025-183. She provided a brief overview of the proposed millage rates for the Downtown Development Districts and budget; staff recommends adoption. Page 6 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 Deputy City Clerk Pamela Omichinski read the following information on the millage resolution: 1. Name of Taxing Authority - City of Ocala Downtown Development Districts A, B and C 2. The Fiscal Year 2025-26 operating millage rate for Downtown District A is 1.7185, which is greater than the rolled-back rate of 1.5995 by 7.44%. 3. The Fiscal Year 2025-26 operating millage rate for Downtown District B is 1.6332, which is greater than the rolled-back rate of 1.5175 by 7.62%. 4. The Fiscal Year 2025-26 operating millage rate for Downtown District C is 1.4699, which is greater than the rolled-back rate of 1.3758 by 6.84%. 5. Ad valorem tax revenues are increasing to support increased operating expenditures in the Districts. No public comment. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. Council President Dreyer announced the time of adoption at 5:07 pm. RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: James P. Hilty Sr SECONDER: Jay A. Musleh AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 9d. Budget Resolution 2025-183 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget for the Downtown Development fund in the amount of $695,065 Presentation By: Tammi Haslam Deputy Clerk Omichinski announced the total Fiscal Year 2025-26 Downtown Development fund operating budget is $695,065. No public comment. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. Council President Dreyer announced the time of adoption at 5:08 pm. Council President Dreyer closed the public hearing at 5:08 pm. RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Jay A. Musleh SECONDER: Ire J. Bethea Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer Page 7 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 9e. Resolution 2025-184 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 millage rate for the City of Ocala at the current rate of 6.6177 Presentation By: Tammi Haslam Budget Director Tammi Haslam discussed the adoption of resolutions 2025-184 and 2025-185. The proposed millage rates, budget, and revised fee schedule are consistent with the workshop information presented to City Council and the Mayor on August 12, 2025; staff recommends adoption. Deputy City Clerk Omichinski read the following information on the millage resolution: 1. Name of Taxing Authority - City of Ocala 2. The Fiscal Year 2025-26 operating millage rate is 6.6177, which is greater than the rolled-back rate of 6.2532 by 5.83%. 3. Ad valorem tax revenues are increasing to support the addition of critical employees and assist with increasing cost pressures related to salary, benefits, and operating costs. No public comment. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. Council President Dreyer announced the time of adoption at 5:10 pm. RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Barry Mansfield SECONDER: Jay A. Musleh AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 9f. Budget Resolution 2025-185 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget for the City of Ocala in the amount of $1,152,885,830 Presentation By: Tammi Haslam Deputy City Clerk Omichinski announced the Fiscal Year 2025-26 General Fund budget total is $188,100,612. The City’s total Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget is $1,152,885,830. No public comment. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. Council President Dreyer announced the time of adoption at 5:11 pm. Council President Dreyer closed the public hearing at 5:11 pm. RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: James P. Hilty Sr Page 8 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 SECONDER: Ire J. Bethea Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10. General Business 10a. Additional expenditures under the existing agreement with GFL Solid Waste Southeast LLC for solid waste disposal services in the amount of $1,719,574 for an estimated contract total of $19,368,574 Presentation By: Darren Park There being no discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Jay A. Musleh SECONDER: Ire J. Bethea Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10b. Award of a five-year contract to GFL Solid Waste Southeast, LLC, for the provision of solid waste disposal services with an approximate total expenditure of $19,412,250 Presentation By: Darren Park There being no discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Ire J. Bethea Sr SECONDER: James P. Hilty Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10c. Seventh amendment to the agreement with Waste Pro of Florida, Inc. for single-stream curbside recycling with a yearly expenditure of $1,684,065 Presentation By: Darren Park There being no discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Ire J. Bethea Sr SECONDER: James P. Hilty Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10d. Three-year contract award to Shellard Lighting Design, LLC, for holiday lighting and décor services in an aggregate amount not to exceed $508,023 Presentation By: Amy Casaletto Jessica Fieldhouse, Ocala Mainstreet, 516 NE Sanchez Avenue, spoke in favor of decorating Downtown with holiday lights to increase foot traffic to support small businesses during the holiday season. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. Page 9 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: James P. Hilty Sr SECONDER: Barry Mansfield AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10e. Expenditures for a contract with CenturyLink/Lumen Technologies for bandwidth/metropolitan area network circuits in the amount of $298,296 Presentation By: Mel Poole There being no discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Ire J. Bethea Sr SECONDER: Barry Mansfield AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10f. Resolution 2025-41 to accept a Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement grant for the rehabilitation of the general aviation terminal apron in the amount of $2,664,891 Presentation By: Matthew Grow There being no discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Barry Mansfield SECONDER: Ire J. Bethea Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10g. Resolution 2025-42 to accept a Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement grant to extend the runway safety area (Runway 36) in the amount of $225,850 Presentation By: Matthew Grow There being no discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Barry Mansfield SECONDER: James P. Hilty Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10h. One year renewal with Read’s Uniforms, LLC, to provide fire rescue uniforms for an annual estimated expenditure of $138,000 Presentation By: Clint Welborn There being no discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED Page 10 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 MOVER: Jay A. Musleh SECONDER: Barry Mansfield AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 10i. Collective bargaining agreements with the Police Officer Bargaining Unit and the Lieutenants and Sergeants Bargaining Unit of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #129 for the period of October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028 Presentation By: Todd Swanson Mayor Marciano commended Chief of Staff, Chris Watt, for his hard work supporting first responders and recruiting new officers. Furthermore, he believes the City is moving in the right direction. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Ire J. Bethea Sr SECONDER: Barry Mansfield AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 11. Internal Auditor's Report 12. City Manager's Report - Staff legislative priorities review City Manager Pete Lee discussed the list of staff legislative priorities. The City is requesting consensus from Council to move forward with the priorities, which will be presented to the Marion County Legislative Delegation on October 1, 2025. To note, the 2026 Legislative Session begins on January 13, 2026 to March 13, 2026. Council Member Musleh requested the City allow Council twenty-four hours to respond. Mr. Lee stated he will contact each Council Member individually, prior to the end of the week. Furthermore, he confirmed the City has not received a response regarding Hometown Heroes. Council President Dreyer requested the City add affordable housing refinancing through Hometown Heroes to the list. - O-Line Trolley update City Manager Pete Lee reported the O-Line Trolley will launch on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Furthermore, he clarified the operation hours. - City staff recognition City Manager Pete Lee recognized staff for their hard work this year. Page 11 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 13. Ocala Police Department Report - Overview of Crime and Traffic Stops Police Chief Mike Balken reported on crime data for the period, August 25, 2025 to September 7, 2025: 7,600 total incidents, quadrant breakdown (dispatched versus proactive), 274 crimes, 180 arrests, 1,067 traffic stops, 131 crashes, 18 Baker Acts, and 15 Marchman Acts. - Department Highlights Police Chief Mike Balken reported the department successfully responded to three incidents in August regarding a loaded weapon and burglaries. Furthermore, Hometown Heros honored several Police Officers with awards and catered lunch in honor of 9/11. 14. Ocala Fire Rescue Department Report - Unit Responses Fire Chief Clint Welborn reported on unit responses for a two-week period, September 2, 2025 to September 15, 2025. The two busiest units: Fire Rescue Four (164-unit responses) and Fire Engine Four (120-unit responses). - Service calls update Fire Chief Clint Welborn reported on call type spotlights for a three-week period, September 2, 2025 to September 15, 2025: motor vehicle accidents 78, structure fires 5, and community paramedicine/core 52, and calls for service 964 (17,751 calls-to-date). - Department Highlights Fire Chief Clint Welborn reported the department was awarded the HCA Life Saving Award and attended the Hometown Heros Award Gala on September 4, 2025. The department responded to a structure fire (September 5, 2025) and participated in several 9/11 remembrance ceremonies. Furthermore, four employees were recently promoted. Council President Dreyer recognized staff for hosting several successful meetings with the Fire Department. 15. City Attorney's Report - Request for Quit Claim Deed City Attorney Sexton discussed the execution of a Quit Claim Deed. He provided a brief overview of a past abrogation performed by the City in 2006. He requested City Council approve the Quit Claim Deed to clarify a prior abrogation of a property. There being no further discussion the motion carried by roll call vote. Page 12 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Jay A. Musleh SECONDER: Ire J. Bethea Sr AYE: Bethea Sr, Hilty Sr, Mansfield, Musleh, and Dreyer 16. Public Comments - Jason Tolbert, Resident, commented on homeless challenges Jason Tolbert, no fixed address, shared his personal experience with homelessness and health challenges, expressing frustration with barriers to assistance due to having a service dog and lack of income. He raised concerns about the effectiveness and accountability of the Office of Homeless Prevention and called for more targeted support and oversight, particularly for individuals not struggling with addiction. Mr. Tolbert emphasized that addressing homelessness requires individualized support rather than broad policies. He shared his efforts to remain clean, contribute to the community, and seek employment despite health challenges and systemic barriers. He criticized local service providers, including the Office of Homeless Prevention, Salvation Army, Interfaith, and the soup kitchen, for lack of accountability and ineffective case management. He advocated for relocating services away from downtown and called for more oversight and support for individuals like himself who are sober, motivated, and seeking stability. He expressed a desire to work with the City to help others facing homelessness. Mr. Tolbert concluded by commending the City of Ocala and its police department for treating him with dignity, noting that discrimination he has experienced comes primarily from private businesses. He criticized the stigmatization of homelessness and expressed a desire to help change public perception, emphasizing that not all homeless individuals are criminals and that he hopes to be part of a positive shift in the community. Council President Dreyer requested Mr. Tolbert meet with Deputy Director of Community Development Services Robin Ford to discuss his struggles. - Lindsey Turner, Resident, concerns of homeless issues Lindsey Turner, Resident, concurred with Mr. Tolbert’s comments and noted he is homeless as well. 17. Informational Items and Calendaring Items Page 13 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 - Tuesday, September 23, 2025 - 3:00pm - TPO Meeting - Marion County BOCC Auditorium - Tuesday, October 7, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, October 21, 2025 - 3:30pm - CRA Board meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, October 21, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, November 4, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, November 11, 2025 - Veteran's Day - City Offices closed - Tuesday, November 18, 2025 - 3:45pm - CRA Board meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, November 18, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26 - Thanksgiving Holiday - City Offices closed 17a. Fully Executed Contracts Under $50,000 17b. Flood Insurance Assessment Report 18. Comments by Mayor - Ride-along with Code Enforcement Mayor Marciano shared his positive experience during a recent ride-along with Code Enforcement Officer Dale Hollingworth. He praised the department for its professionalism, dedication, and ability to handle difficult interactions with calm and respect. The experience provided valuable insight into the important role code enforcement plays in maintaining city standards, and he commended the team for their commitment despite limited resources. - Comments on Downtown Autumn decorations Mayor Marciano recognized the Parks & Recreations Department for decorating the City with beautiful autumn decorations. - Workout with the Mayor event Mayor Marciano encouraged the public to attend the next Workout with the Mayor event on Thursday, September 18, 2025. - 9/11 Memorial request Mayor Marciano expressed concern that the City did not hold a formal remembrance event for 9/11 this year. While the “Feed the Fearless” initiative took place, he noted that the County typically hosts a morning event and suggested that if they do not in the future, the City should take the lead. He emphasized the importance of ensuring a commemoration is held next year, stating it is the right thing to do. 19. Comments by City Council Members - Council Member Musleh thanked the public for supporting his reelection - Council President Dreyer encouraged the public to go vote Page 14 of 15 City Council Minutes September 16, 2025 20. Adjournment Adjourned at 5:53 pm Minutes _______________________________ ________________________________ Kristen M. Dreyer Angel B. Jacobs Council President City Clerk Page 15 of 15

Agenda

Ocala City Council Agenda - Revised Tuesday, September 16, 2025 Meeting Information WELCOME! Location Citizens are encouraged to participate in City of Ocala Ocala City Hall meetings. Speakers wishing to provide public comments to the 110 SE Watula Avenue City Council should complete a written public comment form Second Floor - Council Chambers and shall submit said form to the City Clerk prior to the meeting Ocala, Florida being called to order. Unless otherwise permitted, no person https://www.ocalafl.gov/meetings shall be permitted to provide public comments to City Council if they have not completed and submitted a public comment Time card prior to the meeting being called to order. Speakers will be 4:00 PM limited to 3 (three) minutes. Additional time may be granted by the Council President. When recognized, state name and Council Members Kristen Dreyer, Council President address. Citizen groups are asked to name a spokesperson. Ire Bethea Sr., Pro Tem James P. Hilty Sr. The City of Ocala encourages civility in public discourse and Barry Mansfield requests that speakers limit their comments to specific motions Jay A. Musleh and direct their comments to the Council. Cell phones should be Mayor turned off or set to vibrate. Ben Marciano The order of agenda items may be changed if deemed City Manager appropriate by City Council. Peter Lee Citizens are encouraged to provide comments in writing to the City Clerk before meetings for inclusion into the Mission Statement public record. Citizens may also provide input to council The City of Ocala provides fiscally members via office visits, phone calls, letters and e-mail that responsible services consistent with the will become public record. In some instances, i.e., Quasi- community's current and future Judicial Hearings, these particular contacts may be prohibited. expectations. APPEALS Any person who desires to appeal any decision at this meeting City Council's will need a record of the proceedings and for this purpose may Strategic Priorities need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made that includes the testimony and evidence upon which the Priority 1: Economic hub appeal is made. Priority 2: Fiscally sustainable Priority 3: Engaged workforce ADA COMPLIANCE Priority 4: Operational excellence Priority 5: Quality of place If reasonable accommodations are needed for you to participate in this meeting, please call the City Manager’s Office at 352-629-8401 at least 48 hours in advance so arrangements can be made. City Council Agenda - Revised September 16, 2025 Revised: Item 10a & 10b 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 2a. New Employees - Jordan Price, Ocala Fiber Network - Zachariah Farrell, Ocala Fiber Network - Bradley Ottinger, Public Works - Alex Jones, Public Works - Victor Hernandez, Water Resources 3. Public Notice 4. Proclamations and Awards 4a. Presentation of the Mayor’s Citizen Recognition Award to Michael Hoffmann 4b. Presentation of the Give4Marion Day Proclamation to Ocala/Marion County Community Foundation President and Executive Director, Lauren DeIorio 4c. Presentation of the Constitution Week Proclamation to the Daughters of the American Revolution Regent, Rochelle Gerofsky 4d. Presentation of the Central Florida Community Action Agency Day Proclamation to CFCAA Board Member Dr. Gwendolyn B. Dawson 4e. Presentation of the Osceola Middle School Centennial Celebration Proclamation to Osceola Middle School Principal Renee Johnson 4f. Service Award – Sergeant Michael Diesso – Ocala Police Department - 25 Years of Service 4g. Service Award – Captain Anthony Vizzini – 25 Years of Service 5. Presentations 5a. Public Information Officer, Gregory Davis – Communications Update 5b. CEP annual presentation by Tamara Fleischhaker and Heather Shubirg 6. Consent Agenda Consent Agenda items are considered to be routine and will be enacted by one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of Council or the public request specific items to be removed for separate discussion and action. Page 1 of 5 City Council Agenda - Revised September 16, 2025 6a. Five-year Pole Attachment Agreement between the City of Ocala and Wire 3, LLC, outlining the terms for attaching telecommunications equipment to City-owned utility poles Presentation By: Doug Peebles 6b. Second amendment to the Agreement for Management of the Fort King Tennis Center to incorporate a management services fee in an amount not to exceed $98,800 Presentation By: Julie Johnson 6c. Assignment of an airport hangar ground lease from Townley Engineering and Manufacturing to Tem2025Holdings, Inc. Presentation By: Matthew Grow 6d. Renewal of the annual maintenance and support contract of VMWare for the Ocala Police Department in the amount of $86,303 Presentation By: Joshua Sasso 6e. Minutes from September 3, 2025 meeting Presentation By: Angel Jacobs 7. Consent Agenda Items Held for Discussion Should any items be removed from the Consent Agenda for discussion, they will be discussed at this time. 8. Introduction and First Readings of Ordinances (Second and Final Reading - October 7, 2025) 8a. Ordinance 2025-41, amending Sec. 54-31 and 54-121, Code of ORD-2025-41 Ordinances, City of Ocala, Florida, providing for maximum accumulation of waste and modifying the rate for multi-family units with roll-off compactors Presentation By: Darren Park 9. Public Hearings / Second and Final Readings / Adoption of Ordinances Note: Items 9c through 9f will be heard at 5:01pm or shortly thereafter. 9a. Permit for the sale of beer and wine for on-premises consumption for Genki Izakaya, LLC., doing business as Koto Hibachi Express Sushi and Bubble Tea, located at 3811 SW College Road (Parcel 2388-002-00)(Quasi-Judicial) Presentation By: Endira Madraveren Page 2 of 5 City Council Agenda - Revised September 16, 2025 9b. Sale of beer, wine and liquor for on-premises consumption for Shelijen, LLC, doing business as, Staybridge Suites Ocala located at 4627 NW Blitchton Rd (Parcel 21509-001-02)(Quasi-Judicial) Presentation By: Endira Madraveren 9c. Resolution 2025-182 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 millage rates BR-2025-182 for the Downtown Development Districts at the current rates of 1.7185 (District A), 1.6332 (District B), and 1.4699 (District C) Presentation By: Tammi Haslam 9d. Budget Resolution 2025-183 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget BR-2025-183 for the Downtown Development fund in the amount of $695,065 Presentation By: Tammi Haslam 9e. Resolution 2025-184 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 millage rate for BR-2025-184 the City of Ocala at the current rate of 6.6177 Presentation By: Tammi Haslam 9f. Budget Resolution 2025-185 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget BR-2025-185 for the City of Ocala in the amount of $1,152,885,830 Presentation By: Tammi Haslam 10. General Business 10a. Additional expenditures under the existing agreement with GFL Solid Waste Southeast LLC for solid waste disposal services in the amount of $1,719,574 for an estimated contract total of $19,368,574 Presentation By: Darren Park 10b. Award of a five-year contract to GFL Solid Waste Southeast, LLC, for the provision of solid waste disposal services with an approximate total expenditure of $19,412,250 Presentation By: Darren Park 10c. Seventh amendment to the agreement with Waste Pro of Florida, Inc. for single-stream curbside recycling with a yearly expenditure of $1,684,065 Presentation By: Darren Park 10d. Three-year contract award to Shellard Lighting Design, LLC, for holiday lighting and décor services in an aggregate amount not to exceed $508,023 Presentation By: Amy Casaletto Page 3 of 5 City Council Agenda - Revised September 16, 2025 10e. Expenditures for a contract with CenturyLink/Lumen Technologies for bandwidth/metropolitan area network circuits in the amount of $298,296 Presentation By: Mel Poole 10f. Resolution 2025-41 to accept a Federal Aviation Administration RES-2025-41 Airport Improvement grant for the rehabilitation of the general aviation terminal apron in the amount of $2,664,891 Presentation By: Matthew Grow 10g. Resolution 2025-42 to accept a Federal Aviation Administration RES-2025-42 Airport Improvement grant to extend the runway safety area (Runway 36) in the amount of $225,850 Presentation By: Matthew Grow 10h. One year renewal with Read’s Uniforms, LLC, to provide fire rescue uniforms for an annual estimated expenditure of $138,000 Presentation By: Clint Welborn 10i. Collective bargaining agreements with the Police Officer Bargaining Unit and the Lieutenants and Sergeants Bargaining Unit of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #129 for the period of October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028 Presentation By: Todd Swanson 11. Internal Auditor's Report 12. City Manager's Report 13. Ocala Police Department Report 14. Ocala Fire Rescue Department Report 15. City Attorney's Report 16. Public Comments 17. Informational Items and Calendaring Items - Tuesday, September 23, 2025 - 3:00pm - TPO Meeting - Marion County BOCC Auditorium - Tuesday, October 7, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, October 21, 2025 - 3:30pm - CRA Board meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, October 21, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, November 4, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, November 11, 2025 - Veteran's Day - City Offices closed - Tuesday, November 18, 2025 - 3:45pm - CRA Board meeting - Council Chambers - Tuesday, November 18, 2025 - 4:00pm - City Council meeting - Council Chambers - Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26 - Thanksgiving Holiday - City Offices closed Page 4 of 5 City Council Agenda - Revised September 16, 2025 17a. Fully Executed Contracts Under $50,000 17b. Flood Insurance Assessment Report 18. Comments by Mayor 19. Comments by City Council Members 20. Adjournment Page 5 of 5

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